Chinese Restaurant Owner Murdered In Ipswich

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IPSWICH (CBS) – A restaurant owner was murdered at his restaurant in Ipswich on Tuesday.

The body of 62-year-old Tony Woo was found at his Majestic Dragon Chinese restaurant on Route 1.

Woo, who ran the restaurant for about 20 years, was found dead inside by employees, nearly 12 hours since he was last seen alive by relatives. Essex County District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett said his body was discovered near the restaurant’s kitchen.

“I will say that he was seen at about 12:30 last night by relatives, and again, his employees this morning found him at approximately 11:14 a.m.,” said Blodgett.

Sources told WBZ News Radio 1030 that Woo was shot, but an autopsy will be conducted to determine the official cause of death.

“He was well-liked in town,” said Chief Paul Nikas of the Ipswich Police Department. “There was never any issues here that would cause us any concerns. It is a tragedy, and we’re doing the best we can to make closure for his family.”

Police did not specify whether there was a sign of forced entry or if there was any motive for the killing. There have been recent robberies in the area, but it’s unknown if there’s any connection to the crime.